In a passionate address delivered at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco, Prince William emphasized the urgent need to safeguard the world’s oceans, describing the situation as a crisis “like none that we have ever faced before.” Speaking to an audience gathered at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum, the Prince painted a stark picture of marine life that is “diminishing before our eyes” and emphasized the immediate need for action at all levels—from local initiatives to global policies. His speech reflected a broader concern for the environment, especially as rising temperatures, pollution, and overfishing pose catastrophic threats to ocean ecosystems and the communities dependent on them.
Prince William’s remarks were bolstered by his assertion of the critical role oceans play in underpinning life on Earth. He noted that healthy oceans are responsible for producing half of the world’s oxygen, regulating climate patterns, and providing sustenance for over three billion individuals worldwide. These points highlight the intricate interconnectedness between human survival and marine health—a theme that the Prince elaborated on in both English and French, appealing to the international audience present.
As part of a larger discourse on environmental health, the forum occurred on the brink of the UN Ocean Conference taking place in Nice, France. This landmark event was set to delve into the oceans’ integral roles in global trade, food security, and sustainable energy initiatives, further underscoring the urgency for united global action. Attending alongside numerous environmentalists, scientists, and investors, Prince William attempted to bridge the gap between ecological needs and economic interests; he recognized that investing in ocean conservation might appear detached from everyday life for many investors. He encouraged the audience to appreciate the potential of the blue economy, which encompasses financial opportunities derived from ocean resources while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Founder of the Earthshot Prize, Prince William took this platform to announce the initiative’s commitment to awarding £1 million prizes annually for innovative solutions that address climate challenges. His vision emphasizes the importance of creating economic pathways that align with ecological preservation, thereby fostering a sustainable future.
Amidst the discussions, various attendees such as French President Emmanuel Macron, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and leaders from Brazil and Costa Rica highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event. The Prince’s remarks resonated powerfully with the message conveyed by notable environmental advocates like Sir David Attenborough—a prominent voice in wildlife conservation. Attenborough’s recent film, “Oceans,” illustrated the stark realities of human impact on marine ecosystems, an influence that Prince William deemed as “the most compelling argument for immediate action I have ever seen.”
The Prince’s description of watching vibrant sea ecosystems transform into barren landscapes was particularly evocative, illustrating the emotional weight of the environmental crisis. He urged that the plight of the oceans can no longer be ignored and cannot remain an issue relegated to the background. “For many, it is an urgent wake-up call to just what is going on in our oceans,” he asserted, encapsulating the immediate threat posed to marine biodiversity and health.
In a bid to inspire change and investments in ocean solutions, Kensington Palace characterized Prince William’s address as a “landmark intervention.” His proactive engagement with global leaders—including a planned closed session with ocean experts and investors—reinforces his commitment to fostering dialogue and action pertinent to marine conservation. The overarching message of his speech emphasized the necessity for a concerted response aimed at ensuring the viability of ocean ecosystems, thereby securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
As the Prince concluded his remarks with a famous quote from Attenborough—”If we save the sea, we save our world”—he encapsulated the essence of the gathering: the imperative action needed to protect the oceans and, in turn, our very existence on this planet. In this critical moment for environmental advocacy, Prince William’s role as a leader in ocean conservation highlights the importance of integrating ecological well-being with economic strategies for the future.